Butler’s pantries are making a major comeback and for good reason.

You don’t need an actual waitstaff to make use of the space, either.

Butler’s pantries are a game-changer for today’s Southern hosts if they’re designed with intention.

Idea House 2023 Butler’s Pantry

Credit:Laurey W. Glenn; Stylist: Matthew Gleason

Here’s what you should know about butler’s pantries before creating your own.

Mealtime and entertaining essentials likechina,silver, and crystal were kept there, often under lock and key.

The butler acted as a security guard to prevent theft, sometimes even sleeping there.

Butler’s Pantry with Botanical Print Walls

Credit: Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller

This space between the kitchen and dining room was also where they frequently prepped and plated meals.

Extra Storage Space

The benefits of extra storage can never be overstated.

“It also keeps those items hidden away when company is over so your kitchen stays tidy.”

Brandon Ingram Atlanta Home Scullery

Credit:ANTONIS ACHILLEOS; STYLING: MATTHEW GLEASON

Don’t forget to dig through your cabinets for them, too.

Just think, how much storage you’ll get back!

Entertaining

Is your house the place to be on Friday nights?

Idea House 2024 Kiawah River bar with blue and white tile backsplash

Credit:Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller

Do you have a big family that loves to invite themselves over?

The fact that you’ve got the option to hide dirty dishes and clutter is even better.

Keep using your butler’s pantry as intended: as the final destination before your food reaches the table.

McNeill Family Farmhouse Butler’s Pantry

Credit:HECTOR MANUEL SANCHEZ; STYLING: CHRISTINA WRESSELL

This is especially useful for entertainers and big families who simply never have enough room to prep and plate.

It could easily become neglected or disorganized over time instead of serving its purpose.

For some families, a regular pantry might work just as well without all that added responsibility."

Taylor Family Home Pantry

Cooper cloaked the pantry in Farrow & Ball’s Brinjal (No. 222).Credit:DANE TASHIMA; Styling: PAGE MULLINS

Want to put in a little sink?

Add on plumbing too.

Basically, it has to make sense for your lifestyle.

Butler’s Pantry

Credit: Photo by: Laurey W. Glenn